Family and Community Rally for Olympian Ryan Cochran-Siegle at Vermont Ski Slope

The Cochran family and their community gathered at Cochran’s Ski Area in Richmond, Vermont, to celebrate Olympian Ryan Cochran-Siegle during his recent downhill race. The ski area has been a local hub since its founding in 1961, nurturing generations of young skiers seeking to achieve their Olympic dreams.

A Strong Community Foundation

Cochran’s Ski Area started as a simple rope-tow and has evolved into a vital community resource. It offers local children the chance to learn skiing, with many participating in Friday Night Lights events. This inclusive atmosphere is enhanced by support from family and friends.

A Family Legacy

The roots of this legacy trace back to Mickey and Ginny Cochran, who instilled the importance of hard work and humility in their children. Marilyn Brown, Ryan’s aunt, emphasized the foundational role her parents played in shaping their skiing ambitions, stating, “Be the best you can be, but not think you’re better than anybody else.”

Olympic Aspirations

Forty-four-year-old Jimmy Cochran, now the general manager of the ski area, prepared for the watch party to support his cousin Ryan. Ryan, a 33-year-old ski racer, competed in the men’s downhill event at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. His previous Olympic achievement includes a silver medal in Super-G at the Beijing Winter Games in 2022.

• Olympic Silver Medal: Super-G at Beijing 2022.
• Current Event: Men’s Downhill race during Milan Cortina 2026.
• Family Legacy: Encouragement stemming from Mickey and Ginny Cochran.

The Watch Party

As dawn broke on race day, the lodge was filled with family and friends, all supporters of Ryan’s journey. Many in attendance, including Marilyn Brown, had special reasons to cheer, with her birthday being a sentimental backdrop to the event. Children decorated with homemade signs watched intently as Ryan made his run.

A Heartfelt Community Experience

Despite not finishing on the podium, Ryan placed 18th, two seconds behind gold medalist Franjo von Allmen of Switzerland. The mood in the lodge remained upbeat, with attendees celebrating both Ryan’s effort and Marilyn’s birthday.

Barbara Ann, Ryan’s mother, reflected on the experience. “I hope he enjoys the experience,” she stated, recalling her father’s wisdom about focusing on skills rather than results.

Continued Support and Celebration

The event exemplified the deep bond between the Cochran family and their community. Roger Brown, Ryan’s cousin, noted how intertwined their identities have become. “What’s really neat is that it blends family and community,” he commented.

As the day came to an end, a sense of unity lingered, showcasing how sporting events can bring together family and community, fostering lasting memories in the heart of Vermont.